Hi, my name is Fenix, and I moved to Canada in 2014 when I was 10 years old.

At the time, I didn’t even know Canada was a country. We moved here because the education system back home was poor, and my parents saw no future for us there. They worked hard to bring us across the world in search of a better life. We settled in a small neighborhood in Calgary, Alberta. One day, after coming home from school, I saw a lady sitting in front of our house in a wheelchair. Her name was Kelly Gurtin. She lived a few houses down and came over to say hello because we had just moved in. Over time, she became a big part of our lives. She would sometimes pick us up from school, and whenever my parents needed help, she was always there to assist. Long story short, I’ve known Kelly for 11 years now—and counting. I’m 21 years old today, and I feel it’s my turn to give back and help her the way she once helped me and my family.

Why I'm Raising Funds

Kelly urgently needs a new wheelchair. Her current one has been deemed unrepairable, and because of that, she’s stuck in bed 90% of the day. The only times she gets out of bed are to eat dinner or take a shower.

Kelly is considered low income. Throughout her life, she worked in community service. She served as a youth counselor at Avenue 15, a shelter for runaway youth, and worked with the Child Witness Support Program through the Victim Assistance Unit and The Ability Society. She gave so much to others—now she needs a little help herself.

She’s been able to secure funding for the base power wheelchair, as well as power tilt and recline functions. However, she still needs help covering the cost of:

Elevating leg rests

Lighting package (headlights, tail lights, and turn signals)

These features are not optional for Kelly—they’re essential.

For example, the elevating leg rest will allow her to stay in the wheelchair for longer periods. This is critical because she has previously broken both her femurs and tibias. Her legs can’t simply hang down all day—they’re too fragile and need to be supported properly.

How You Can Help

Any support, contribution, or kind gesture will go directly toward improving Kelly’s quality of life. She has given so much to others. I’m asking for your help in giving her back just a little bit of the kindness she’s shown to the world.

Elevating Leg Rest - $4000

The Light Package - $1300

Maintenance - $2700

Thank you for reading, and thank you for caring.

Thank you so much for your donations